Chapter 14-15 questions

1.    Explain why you selected the video you choose from the selection listed above.

The reason I chose “The Greek Awakening: Art from the 5th Century BC” was because the title insinuates a transition in Greek culture.  While the other titles do describe parts of Greek culture, the word “ awakening” made me think of Buddhism and so I decided to watch that specific video.

2.    For each video list/discuss the key concepts you learned.

In the Awakening video, I learned that around the 5^th century B.C. that greeks shifted their focus from Gods being the center of the universe, to the individual. Around this time, Greeks started positing questions about purpose, existence, mathematics, and other areas of philosophy. Also, I learned about the different uses for the Parthenon, for example: It was used as a mosque, and a temple, before scholars would congregate.

In “More Human than Human” I learned about different cultures and their and values: pertaining to the representation of human figures in art. Also, I learned about the seagull research done at Oxford: which is theorized to describe why historic cultures accentuated certain salient features of the human body in art.

3.    How do the videos relate to the readings in the text? The videos relate to the text, because they all describe the relationship between culture, art, and architecture.  There is a correlation between the ways in which Egyptians and Greeks valued mathematics; resulting in art and architecture that placed a heavy emphasis on mathematics. The prehistoric figure, found in Vienna also is representative of these correlations. as heavier women were more capable of successfully carrying children in those times, the idea of female beauty conveyed in art, indicates that certain salient features were sought after to ensure the existence of their tribes.

4.    What is your opinion of the films? How do they add depth to understanding of the readings and art concepts?

I really enjoyed both films, because they illustrated how our perceptions of beauty are influenced by culture, but also, how both of those factors influence art and architecture. The films also depicted how Greeks used mathematics to compensate for visual effect using a slight bulge “entasis”.  I also learned about how Christians and Greeks used architecture to bring people together. In Christianity, multi-purpose halls “Basilica’s” were designed for congregational worship. In Greece, The Parthenon was used a place of central worship, but also, for scholars to philosophize.  

Module 7

1. In “Last Call for Planet Earth,” I learned about different concepts in sustainability: which are focused on designing and constructing infrastructure in a way that promotes and utilizes sustainable environmental resources and conditions. These methods can be used for heating, cooling, and lighting.

In “Frank Gehry: Architecture as Art” I learned about designing for aesthetics; instead, of for sustainability. Architect, Frank Gehry has been an influential figure in contemporary architecture. His designs focus on utilizing multiple materials that redefine how we think about modern architecture: advances in computer drafting have allowed for Gehry to focus more on developing compelling structures.

2.    Both of the videos that I watched challenge many of the basic assumptions and ideas we have about traditional architecture. Both videos also illustrate how divergent ideas can solve many of the problems we face with energy, and our climate. The textbook addresses much of the history in architecture, but also, it focuses on the future of architecture, including: new materials, and technologies.  

3.    I really enjoyed both of the films. “Last Call for Planet Earth” illustrated the different concepts and materials that can address issues of sustainability and enrgy consumption: while, “Frank Gehry’s” documentary discussed the influence of art and technology in architecture. Both of these films exemplified how technology and art can assist in developing and modifying structures that will help reduce our consumption of natural materials and other resources.

4.    I chose to watch both videos, because I am passionate about environmentalism and art. I found both videos to be very informative and intriguing, and am interested in learning more about technological advances in architecture; pertaining to sustainability.

Reviewing Peer Responses

1.

http://ashleys-art200.blogspot.com/ 

http://abstractmuse.blogspot.com/

2. When looking at project #1, I did notice multiple elements and priniciples; however, I think it would have to be completely intentional for a photographer to limit the amounts of these elements.

3.None of the artists that I chose were in my peers collection, but this was done intentionally. I wanted to see why different art attracted my peers attention, and through that, I developed a better understanding of the individual.

4. Charles E Burchfield “Winter, East Liverpool 1927,” Oil on Canvas, really peaked my interest, but in an indifferent way. The art itself seems to be a caricature, and almost a cartoonish representation of that time and place: which leaves to question, what is the distinction between fine art and television? I’m not sure if I love this piece or not, but I keep finding myself staring it at.

5. What I found to be really fascinating in reviewing both projects by two individuals was the level of knowledge I have acquired about both of my peers. Ashley’s art: in both projects, contained some form of nature in it. Abstract Muse’s art: was almost always abstract, and these qualities permeated through her photography. It’s really interesting to see what motivates and inspires others artists to create.

6. I found both comments to be very insightful: as they supported and critiqued my style. I think constructive critism is imperative: as long as it doesn’t render one useless. Gaining the perceptions of others has helped me identify my strengths and weaknesses.

Module 6

1.    For each video list/discuss the key concepts you learned.

In the sculpting video, I learned how sculptors create molds, by using metal, silicone, and platers. First, sculptors place metal seams into the artwork: to divide the silicone mold into as many parts as needed. Next, the artist covers the clay figure in silicone to protect it from damage: when creating a negative print. Last, the artist covers the silicone in plaster, and when its dried the artist drills holes into the cast, which will then be screwed together, when casting the plaster.

          In the Glass and Ceramics video, I learned the different methods and techniques artists use to shape glass. Using Silica Sand and various fluxes, such as: Limestone, Pot Ash, or Oyster Shells, the glass maker heats these components. Once properly heated, the glass maker gathers a lump of the molten glass on their rod. Next, the maker inflates the molten glass, by blowing into the rod: which will then be shaped, using various tools of wood, steel, or wet newspapers. When completed, the maker will reheat the formation, to make it more structurally reliable.

2.    How do the videos relate to the readings in the text?

 One recurring theme between many of the materials described in Chapter 11-12 and the videos are the unique characteristics with each medium. There is an emphasis placed on each material, how it relates to the earth, and the imperfections with each medium. It is then the artist’s job to exploit the imperfections within that medium to enhance their vision.

3.    What is your opinion of the films? How do they add depth to understanding of the topics: Sculpture, Installation, and Craft?

I really enjoyed both of the films, and I found them to be very informative. The Sculpting video demonstrated how laborious sculpting in stone can be: it is a very meticulous form, which requires lots of patience, and effort.  Regarding installation: the use of glass in architecture demonstrates its ability to form and shape our perceptions of our environment: acoustically, aesthetically, and thermally. The videos also exemplified each person’s skill and their artist relevance: watching how sculptor’s create their work, demonstrated the amount of diligence, labor, and patience required to perfect their style within that medium: described in the textbook as their “craft.”